Any questions?
(877) 417-8733

Protecting Your Manufactured Home in Amarillo, TX

Covertree’s Comprehensive Guide!

Powered by

Disclaimer: Data Accuracy and Sources

The data in the Covertree Resources section is from publicly available sources last updated in December 2022. We provide source links for verification. However, we can't guarantee accuracy. Rely on this data at your own discretion. For specific advice, consult professionals.

A Guide to Mobile Home Insurance in Amarillo, TX: Costs, Coverage, and Considerations

Welcome to Amarillo, Texas - the perfect blend of old & new, located at the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Amarillo is where the southern plains meet the desert, making it a rich reservoir of history and culture. Amarillo seamlessly marries the old-world charm of working western ranches with the bustling vibrancy of a 21st-century economy.

2023 marks a special year for Route 66, and Amarillo is prepping up to commemorate its 100th anniversary. From June 1-10, the city will be alive with a series of events celebrating this historic highway. Expect classic car shows, bus tours, cattle drives, parades, music festivals, and more.

Centrally located in the Texas Panhandle, Amarillo sits at the intersection of Interstates 40 and 27, and U.S. Highways 60, 87, and 287. With over 270 sunny days annually, the city boasts of a clean, low-humidity environment thanks to its altitude and constant breeze. From a population of 482 in 1890, Amarillo has grown to 268,691 residents as of the 2020 Census.

Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport facilitates the city's connection to the world, served by major airlines like American Eagle, Continental/United, and Southwest Airlines. Amarillo thrives on ranching, farming, education, banking, oil and gas extraction, and tourism. Major crops include corn, cotton, maize, and wheat.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch is an iconic stop. Famous for its 72-ounce steak challenge, it's a culinary monument of Amarillo. Don't miss out on Cadillac Ranch, a vibrant art installation of half-buried Cadillacs; tour Route 66's historic district; and witness the majestic Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Dive deep into the Wild West culture at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, appreciate the American Quarter Horse at its dedicated museum, or enjoy the local arts scene with performances at the Amarillo Little Theater, Amarillo Opera, and Lone Star Ballet. Explore historic buildings, churches, public art, and more in Amarillo's rejuvenated downtown. For accommodations, consider the Courtyard by Marriott Amarillo Downtown, Hyatt Place Amarillo West, or Home Suites by Hilton.

Founded in spring 1887, Amarillo was destined to be a significant cattle shipping market thanks to intersecting railroads. Originally named Ragtown, Amarillo (which means 'yellow' in Spanish) was named after the sub-soil's color. From a whistle stop to a bustling city, Amarillo witnessed rapid growth in the early 20th century. Railroads played a significant role in the city's development. Cattle shipping was also a major industry in the late 19th century, making Amarillo the world's largest cattle shipping market for a time.

With its perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity, Amarillo is indeed a must-visit for anyone touring the Texas Panhandle. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a memorable trip, Amarillo offers something for everyone.

Understanding Mobile home Insurance in Texas.

Do I Need Mobile Home Insurance in Texas?

Texas Mobile Home Insurance Costs Explained

Mobile home insurance is essential for safeguarding your most valuable asset. Prices in Texas typically range from $250 to $1,300 annually, influenced by various factors. Deciding between actual cash value and replacement cost coverage will also impact both premiums and compensation amounts in case of a claim.

Insurance rates are influenced by:

* e.g. A five-year-old home bought for $50,000 but now worth $35,000 will be compensated at $35,000.
** Typically has higher premiums but offers more compensation during a claim.

Unique Considerations for Texas Mobile Home Insurance!

Mobile Home Insurance Coverage in Texas:

Filing a Mobile Home Insurance Claim in Texas:

Tips for Purchasing Mobile Home Insurance in Texas:

Remember, while insurance might seem optional, it provides invaluable peace of mind against potential financial setbacks.

Choosing the Ideal Texas Homeowners Insurance Policy:

The apt insurance policy largely hinges on your home type, repair or rebuilding costs, and the worth of your belongings. It's often a smart move to opt for the most robust protection within your budget. This is especially true if you haven't set aside a significant emergency fund. Though a comprehensive policy with a lower deductible might require higher premiums, it ensures quick recovery after a substantial loss.

As your savings grow, you might consider increasing your deductible to decrease your premium. But here's a pro tip: sometimes, a $1,000 deductible isn't much pricier than a $5,000 one. In such instances, the minimal extra expense can prove invaluable in the event of a large claim.

The location of your mobile home, particularly the zip code in Texas, is a significant factor.

Did You Know ?

Mobile homes in Texas are subject to the Mobile Home Commission Act!

You Need: The HO-7: Texas Mobile Home Form

What Does an HO-7 Policy Cover?

Type of Homes: Mobile or manufactured homes (trailers, single/double-wide mobile homes, RVs, modular homes, etc.).

Open perils, covering almost everything unless specifically excluded.
Named perils, only covers for specific causes of loss listed on the policy.
Coverage is based on replacement cost, not the market rate.
Coverage for named perils only. Examples of named perils: lightning, hail, fire, theft, vandalism, explosions, water damage from plumbing, etc.
Sub-limits for certain valuables (e.g., jewelry, firearms, electronics). Jewelry: $1,500 (theft-only) Firearms: $2,500 Electronics: Varies
Protection against bodily injuries or property damage you’re found liable for.
Covers expenses if the mobile home becomes uninhabitable.
Covers medical expenses for injuries in the mobile home (surgery, ambulance fees, X-rays, etc.).

What Does an HO-7 Policy NOT Cover?

Personal property damage that doesn't fit the named perils.

Exclusions include:

Understand The HO-3: Texas Special Form

The HO-3 policy is the predominant homeowners insurance in Texas. It offers open-peril coverage for homes and related structures, covering all damages unless specifically excluded.

Exclusions typically include:

Personal property, however, is only covered for specified risks.

Additional Insurance Policy Options:

Even if you’ve chosen the HO-7 or another base form for your policy, you might still want to contemplate additional coverage for specific scenarios. Here are some prevalent options:

This is a basic policy, covering only named perils. It offers actual cash value instead of replacement cost coverage. Designed mainly for vacant properties or standalone structures, all occupancy types can avail of this policy. However, for liability or personal property coverage, you’ll have to incorporate these features.
Also termed a landlord’s policy, the DP-3 is tailored for rental properties. It covers the property’s structure, provides liability coverage for accidents, and even ensures your rental income in case your tenants need to vacate due to a covered loss.
An essential policy if someone incurs severe injuries on your property with damages soaring above $1 million. This policy offers extra liability coverage exceeding the limits of a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. You would need a substantial underlying coverage to qualify.
For those treasured high-value possessions, like jewelry or electronics, a scheduled coverage is necessary. This is because typical personal property coverage under your dwelling policy has limits on payout for such items.
This coverage is your safeguard against costly damages arising from sump pump failures or sewer backups. Without this endorsement, such water damages won’t be covered.
Fires, floods, and other disasters can strike at any time, and these events usually occur when you least expect them. Unless you have the funds to make the needed repairs, you could be stuck without a home. Starting from scratch can be almost impossible. Insurance is a life-saving necessity for you and your family.

Even though you don't want to think about possible disasters, it's vital for everyone to understand their possible risks so that they can prepare for the unthinkable. With an effective insurance plan, you can live worry-free of losing your items or home.

Choosing the Right Mobile Home Insurance for Amarillo, TX.

Weather Risks:

Amarillo, situated in the Texas panhandle, faces distinctive challenges due to its geographical location and local climate. As such, understanding and preparing for these weather risks, especially from an insurance perspective, is crucial for residents.

Tornadoes

Risk:

Amarillo still experiences tornadoes, though their frequency seems to have declined in recent years. However, unexpected events like the destructive tornado in June 2023 showcase the area's vulnerability. The tornado index for Amarillo is notably higher than the national average, indicating an elevated risk.

Insurance Recommendations:

Comprehensive Coverage: Ensure your homeowner's insurance includes wind and tornado damage coverage. Review deductibles and understand the extent of coverage.
Inventory: Keep an updated inventory of personal belongings, which aids in claims if items are lost or damaged.
Emergency Fund: It's advisable to maintain an emergency fund. This will be crucial when addressing deductibles or unexpected repair costs.

Hailstorms

Risk:

Hailstorms are frequent, potentially causing extensive damage to properties and vehicles. Hail can affect large areas, leading to significant repair and replacement costs.

Insurance Implications:

Comprehensive Auto Insurance: For vehicle protection, ensure you have comprehensive coverage that includes hail damage.
Homeowner's Insurance: Verify that your policy covers hail damage to the structure and contents of your home.
Roof Inspection: Regular roof inspections can identify vulnerabilities. Some insurance providers may offer premium reductions for homes with hail-resistant roofs.

Flooding

Risk:

Amarillo occasionally faces heavy rainfalls leading to flooding, as evidenced by events causing hydroplaning and property damage.

Insurance Implications:

Flood Insurance: Standard homeowner's policies often don't cover flood damage. Consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy, especially if you reside in a flood-prone area.
Property Elevation: Elevate electrical appliances and utilities above potential flood levels. This can prevent damage and might lead to insurance premium reductions.
Emergency Fund: Again, maintaining an emergency fund can assist in mitigating immediate repair costs, especially those not covered by insurance.

In conclusion, while Amarillo presents various weather-related challenges, proper insurance preparation can mitigate potential financial strains. It's essential to regularly review and adjust insurance policies to ensure comprehensive protection against these prevalent weather risks.

Recommended Neighborhoods in Amarillo, TX.

Greatest Amarillo Income Growth By Neighborhood (last 5 years):

Best Amarillo School Neighborhoods:

Property Crime Rates in Amarillo, TX.

Amarillo, with its crime rate, presents significant concerns, especially in the domain of property crimes. Let's delve into the specifics:

General Overview:

Amarillo's crime rate, at 41 per one thousand residents, positions it as one of the communities with the highest crime rates in the U.S., irrespective of size.
In the context of Texas, over 96% of other communities record a lower crime rate than Amarillo.
When compared to towns and cities of similar population, Amarillo's crime rate stands out as notably higher.

Detailed Analysis of Property Crimes:

A significant portion of Amarillo's crime statistics can be attributed to property crimes. The main offenses considered under this category include:
Burglary
Larceny over fifty dollars
Motor vehicle theft
Arson
Amarillo residents face a 1 in 30 chance of falling victim to a property crime, translating to a rate of 34 per one thousand population.

Motor Vehicle Theft:

A standout concern in Amarillo is the high rate of motor vehicle theft.
Amarillo's motor vehicle theft rate is one of the highest nationwide, across all community sizes.
A resident's odds of having their car stolen in Amarillo stand at a concerning 1 in 234. This overview underscores the pressing issue of property crimes in Amarillo, calling for comprehensive strategies to address and curb these offenses.

Choice of 6 insurance coverage in Amarillo, TX.

Business Property:

What it is: Extends coverage to business property stored or used in the home.

Why it's needed: For those who run a home-based business or store business items at home, it ensures they're financially protected.

Replacement Cost:

What it is: Compensates the homeowner for the full, current cost of replacing damaged property without factoring in depreciation.

Why it's needed: Ensures that in the event of a loss, the homeowner can replace items without incurring out-of-pocket expenses due to depreciation.

Equipment Breakdown:

What it is: Coverage for the cost of repairing or replacing household appliances after mechanical or electrical failures.

Why it's needed: Household appliances are essential and can be expensive to repair or replace. This coverage minimizes those costs.

Enhanced Dwelling Protection:

What it is: Provides added coverage for rebuilding expenses that go over the policy's stated limit.

Why it's needed: Rebuilding costs can escalate due to factors like increased materials prices or changes in building codes. This ensures full coverage.

Foundation and Water Damage Coverage:

What it is: Specifically covers repairs linked to foundation or water damage.

Why it's needed: Foundation repairs are costly, and water damage can lead to further complications like mold. This add-on provides targeted protection.

Extended Coverage on Jewelry and Furs:

What it is: Additional insurance for valuable items like jewelry and furs, going beyond standard coverage limits.

Why it's needed: Valuable items can have costs that exceed standard policy limits, making this essential for full compensation.

Did You Know ?

Individuals living in manufactured home communities, who typically buy their manufactured home and rent the lot, are subject to different laws. However, if you live in a mobile home outside these communities, you're governed by the same laws as house or apartment renters, primarily found in Chapter 92 of the Texas Property Statutes.

Mobile Home Facts : Texas

Treatment of Manufactured Home as Real Property:

According to the Texas Underwriting Manual TX: 12.24:

Learn about the TMHA!

The Texas Manufactured Housing Association's core mission is to champion the broader objectives and concerns of the manufactured housing sector across Texas.

Consisting of devoted professionals, TMHA actively advocates for their members and the broader Texas manufactured housing community, especially through dedicated representation in the Texas Legislature. Being a member-driven association, their main emphasis is on equipping their extensive network of over 1,400 members with vital resources and insights to thrive in their businesses.

If you're part of the manufactured housing sector and haven't yet joined TMHA, we highly recommend you do so immediately!

Learn about Texas Homeowner Assistance: Two Vital Programs!

Texas residents who are struggling with home-related expenses have two vital assistance programs available: the Texas Homeowner Assistance Program due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) following Hurricane Harvey.

Treatment of Manufactured Home as Real Property:

Purpose: Support homeowners impacted by Hurricane Harvey to repair, rebuild, and enhance their homes.

Services Offered: Financial support for affected homeowners.

Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP):

Purpose: Support homeowners impacted by Hurricane Harvey to repair, rebuild, and enhance their homes.

Services Offered: Home repairs and rehabilitation I Home reconstruction I Enhancements for better resilience against natural disasters I Elevating homes above flood levels along with reconstruction aid I Temporary relocation aid

Residents are encouraged to assess their eligibility and take advantage of these programs to secure and improve their homes.

Texas Coastal Property Insurance Pool Programs!

The Texas Coastal Insurance Pool (TCIP), formerly known as the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA), is a vital insurance entity designed to protect homeowners in the Texas coastal regions. Established in the face of limited private insurance options, the TCIP provides wind and hail coverage to properties located in certain parts of Texas's seacoast territory.

Key Features:

Primarily, the TCIP offers windstorm and hail damage insurance for homeowners who might not find coverage in the private market due to the heightened risk associated with coastal regions.
Residential and commercial properties in the 14 coastal counties and certain parts of Harris County (east of Highway 146) are eligible. However, to qualify, properties must comply with the windstorm building code for the region.
While the TCIP operates similarly to a typical insurance company, it is different in its financial structure. In the case of significant catastrophic losses, the association has the ability to recoup losses through premium surcharges or bonds, ensuring continuity of coverage for its policyholders.
With the growing threat of hurricanes and tropical storms in the Texas coastal regions, the TCIP plays a pivotal role in ensuring that homeowners can obtain the necessary insurance protection against these natural disasters.

Rates:

Inland of the Intracoastal Canal $2.50 per $100 coverage 42 Effective October 1, 2008 Seaward of the Intracoastal Canal $5.00 per $100 coverage

Eligibility for TWIA:

A mobile home located in a designated catastrophe area that meets the following criteria is eligible to be insured under the T.W.I.A. Dwelling Policy with Form No. TWIA-411, Conversion to TWIA Manufactured Home Policy attached to the policy.

The mobile home complies with the definition of manufactured home under the rules and regulations of the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA).
The mobile home is occupied solely as a one or two family residence.
The mobile home is blocked and tied down in accordance with the current state generic standards promulgated by the TDHCA or with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

The mobile home has been inspected, and an inspection approval form has been completed and issued verifying that the home is blocked and tied down in accordance with the required standards with no violations of these standards. The form may be on file with the TDHCA. If a form is not on file with the TDHCA or the form is over five years old, a new inspection approval form that indicates no violations of the blocking and tie down requirements must be obtained through an installer licensed by the TDHCA. 41 Effective October 1, 2008

Homes manufactured on and after September 1, 1997, must be designated by the manufacturer as Zone II homes to be insurable through the Association.

Additions to Mobile Homes:

Limit of Liability:

The maximum limit of liability for a mobile home, including any site-built additions attached to the home, and household goods is $84,000.

Deductibles:

Policy Forms & Endorsements:

The following policy form is to be used: T.W.I.A. Dwelling Policy with Form No. TWIA-411, Conversion to TWIA Manufactured Home Policy attached to the policy

Important Endorsements in Texas:

What it is: Provides coverage that a manufactured housing unit has been affixed to the land, has been converted to real property and that there are no personal property taxes or personal property liens attached to the MHU.

Why it’s needed: This endorsement is issued in conjunction with a T-2 Loan Policy to insure a manufactured housing unit located on the land. Manufactured housing includes mobile homes and other manufactured housing permanently attached to the land as a fixture.

What it is: An addition or modification to a standard insurance policy that provides coverage for damages caused by sinkholes. A sinkhole is a depression or hole in the ground caused by the collapse of a surface layer, often due to the dissolution of limestone or other soluble rocks below the surface. When it occurs under a property, it can cause significant damage or total loss of the structure.

Why it's needed: Not all standard homeowners' insurance policies cover damage caused by sinkholes. In areas prone to sinkhole activity, this endorsement is crucial. A sinkhole can render a home uninhabitable, and without this coverage, homeowners could face substantial financial losses. By adding this endorsement, homeowners are protecting their investment and ensuring they won't be left without resources to repair or rebuild in the event of a sinkhole disaster.

Sudden and Accidental Discharge, Eruption, Overflow or Release of Water or Steam:

What it is: This endorsement provides coverage for damage caused by the unexpected and unintentional release of water or steam from plumbing, heating, air conditioning, or automatic fire protective systems within the mobile home.

Why it's needed: Mobile homes, like any other residential structure, are vulnerable to unforeseen internal water or steam damage, which can be costly to repair. Such incidents might include a burst pipe, malfunctioning water heater, or broken appliance hose. By adding this endorsement to their insurance policy, mobile homeowners can protect themselves financially from the damages and repair costs resulting from these sudden and unexpected events.

Additional Policy Riders for Mobile Home Insurance in Texas:

Adding policy options to a basic insurance plan is a common practice in the mobile home insurance industry. While the events covered in mobile home policies are similar across all states, additional coverage options, known as add-ons, endorsements, and riders, may vary depending on your location and insurance provider. Each of these options comes at an additional cost that can be customized according to your needs.

Provides protection against flood-related damages, excluding waterline or sewer backups. Average annual cost: $700.
The mobile home is occupied solely as a one or two family residence.

defends against damages when drains, pipes, or sewers back up, but not from floods.  Annual cost range: $50-$250.

helps homeowners meet current building codes during repairs or reconstruction, ensuring updates to older homes meet modern standards. Costs: Anywhere between 10% to 25% of dwelling coverage.
offers specialized coverage for high-value items like jewelry or art.
is for home-based businesses, ensuring business property stored at home is covered. Costs vary based on asset value.

aids in managing identity theft-related expenses, from legal fees to credit monitoring. Annual cost range: $20-$60.

Adding any rider will increase your premiums, influenced by location, risk profile, chosen coverage, and deductible. Riders can be added during initial policy purchase, at renewal, or anytime during the policy period. Some carriers might not offer all endorsements, so shopping around might be necessary.

Finding A Manufactured Home or Mobile Home Community In Amarillo, TX

If you're in the market for a mobile or manufactured home in Amarillo, it's important to have access to reliable and trustworthy information. We have compiled valuable information about the best local manufactured home dealers and communities in Amarillo.

Chuck's Mobile Home & RV Supply

Specialties: Mobile home and RV parts and supplies, heating, and air conditioning for RV/Mobile homes.
Overview: If you're seeking specialized items for your mobile home or RV, Chuck's is the one-stop-shop to find everything you need at affordable prices. Having served the Amarillo community for decades, Chuck's has an extensive inventory ranging from foundation covers to furnace parts, doors, windows, and many more.
Experience: With over 31 years in the industry, they follow a family tradition of mobile home service. Additionally, they are distributors of Coleman and Stylecrest products.
Ownership: The store was opened in the 1980s and is now owned by Don Logan since 1999.
Location & Contact: Information specific to the location and contact was not provided in the original text.

Amarillo Home Center

Location: 4634 East Amarillo Blvd Amarillo Tx, 79107
Overview: Amarillo Home Center is dedicated to helping families find their dream homes. Their focus is on ensuring a smooth home buying process from start to finish.
Achievements: Successfully helped 212 families move into their new homes in 2020 and aims to assist another 350 families in 2021. Special Features: Custom-designed homes at a fraction of the cost compared to other corporate retailers.

Oakwood Homes of Amarillo

Overview: Ideal for starting your home buying journey, Oakwood Homes offers a variety of manufactured and modular homes to fit any budget and need.
HouseSmart®: Focus on creating affordable, strong, and energy-efficient homes.
EnergySmart Zero™: Offers homes that promise significant energy savings over time.
BuiltSmart®: Quality products from the world's most trusted brands to ensure longevity.

Southgate

Location: 6405 ARDEN ROAD AMARILLO, TX 79109
Overview: A well-maintained mobile home park close to various amenities and historic sites in Amarillo. Managed by Gemstone Communities, it offers a blend of active, family-friendly living. Facilities: Clubhouse, recreation facilities, swimming pool, sidewalks, playground, and many more.
Lot Rent: Ranges from $650 - $350 per month which includes trash pickup, water, and sewer.

Country Estates

Location: 7900 SW 81ST AVENUE, AMARILLO, TX 79119
Overview: An exclusive 55+ community focused on community events and gatherings, offering an array of facilities from private parking to a spacious clubhouse.
Features: Gated property, pet-friendly neighborhood, low maintenance lifestyle, private yard, proximity to downtown Amarillo, professional on-site management, and more.

Paradise Hills Inc.

Location: 3401 North Vernon Street, Amarillo, TX
Overview: A family-owned establishment that has served the community since 1970. They offer a mobile home lease purchase program, making it accessible for families to own homes.
Facilities: The community ensures safety and cleanliness with average street widths, paved roads, and off-street parking. Pet-friendly, though certain breed restrictions apply. Lot Rent: Ranges from $450 - $750 per month, inclusive of trash pickup, water, and sewer.

These dealers, retailers, and communities have earned their reputation by serving Amarillo's residents diligently. Whether you're looking to buy a new mobile home, find parts for your RV, or settle in a welcoming community, Amarillo has a variety of options to suit your needs. Always ensure to visit and research further before making any decisions.

Finding the Best Mobile Home Insurance in Amarillo , TX

It's essential to compare quotes from various insurance providers and work with local agencies that understand Amarillo's specific risks. You also need to be vocal about being able to customize your policy to cover specific needs like monsoon or dust storm damages. Always remember to ask about any available discounts that you may be eligible for!

These are some things you should look out for in an insurance plan for Amarillo:

  • Amarillo is situated in the Texas Panhandle, an area known for strong winds and hail. This additional coverage can protect mobile homeowners against damage caused by tornadoes, thunderstorms, and high winds.

  • Although Amarillo is not as prone to flooding as some other parts of Texas, flash floods can occur. Separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer is a must since standard mobile home policies usually do not cover flood damage.

  • If you’re moving your mobile home, this protects against damage that might occur during the move. This also covers damages that might occur when relocating or moving the mobile home.

  • Damage to the mobile home’s skirting or the foundation on which it sits might not be covered under a standard policy. This add-on ensures those aspects are protected.
Some mobile home communities or associations in Austin might offer group insurance policies or discounts. Check with your community’s management or association to see if this applies.
The value of your mobile or manufactured home can change, especially if you’ve made significant improvements or the local housing market fluctuates. Regularly reviewing and updating your policy ensures you’re not under or over-insured.

Now that you've got the lowdown on mobile home insurance coverage in Amarillo AZ, don't hesitate to get a CoverTree quote now.

References: 

 

CoverTree Brand Logo

Any questions?
+1 (877) 417-8733